Swollen feet and ankles during pregnancy

woman sitting showing swollen feet

When you’re pregnant, your body holds on to water it would normally get rid of. Your feet, ankles, hands, and fingers may swell, especially at the end of the day. This “puffy” feeling is just a normal part of pregnancy. It’s usually better after a good night’s sleep, but there are some things you can do during the day to keep swelling at bay:

Reduce swelling in ankles and feet
  • Put your feet up when you can. Elevate them while you sleep.
  • Avoid salty foods.
  • Drink 8 to 10 glasses of water a day. Your body needs it anyway!
  • Try wearing compression stockings. They help blood flow back to your heart rather than pooling at your feet.
  • Move around. Don’t sit or stand for too long.
  • Don't take water pills (diuretics).

Call your care team if you notice swelling in your face, puffiness around your eyes,  more than slight swelling of your hands, headaches, or upper-abdominal pain. We’ll need to see you to make sure it’s not a sign of pregnancy-related high blood pressure, or preeclampsia.



Northern California members:
Visit Your Pregnancy to sign up for prenatal classes, get weekly emails, view and prepare for appointments, and more.

Learn about CenteringPregnancy®, a unique prenatal care program that includes group support with other new moms.

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